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Newsroom

Press releases distributed in partnership with ... Mi2N, New Music Weekly, PR.com and the Billboard Media Wire

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JULY 2010

U.S. Army Soldier ‘Mista Latex’ joins current Sunset roster mate and U.S. Army Soldier, ‘Nikko Starr’ by signing a Recording Deal from their respective Forward Operating Bases (FOB) in Afghanistan.

Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset closes his second recording deal with the second staff sergeant army soldiers (Mista Latex and Nikko Starr) while stationed, deployed and fighting in the Afghanistan War!

SSG Dexter Nelams pka ‘Mista Latex’s new CD, "Crush Tape," will be released in late September by Sunset Urban Records. SSG Nelams is with the United States Army, 92nd Brigade Combat Team, currently deployed to the Sharana district in Afghanistan. ‘Nikko’ (Starr), is the SSG with the 33rd, based out of Clarksville, Tennessee, but also is currently deployed to field battles every day during the Afghanistan War, with his home base during the war at the Clark APO.

Over the past six months, the Sunset Urban record label has now signed two separate multi-album recording deals with two separate United States Army soldiers from two separate parts of Afghanistan and this deal will now give ‘Mista Latex’ the ability to release of his debut album, "Crush Pay," during his active duty during war time and while deployed in Afghanistan. “If you think about it from positively and/or from a time line and lead time point of view,” says, Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset, “we will not only be setting up these projects during this time while they are fighting for people like me, let alone their fans, we will also be getting their music in constant rotation at radio, getting their names in the music publications, press wires and we will work their vigorously work their music out for potential license deals, in store plays, internet plays and most of all, we will be creating great revenues for their respective accounts all while they are fighting for the United States.” (Don) Lichterman also says that he “wants their minds at ease” so to speak and that “the last thing I want these guys thinking about today is their music and at the same time, if they (Nikko Starr and Mista Latex) know we are working their music, they can keep their heads and minds on our mission in Afghanistan.”

Sunset Urban is planning to release the extensive 28 song Crush Tape CD by Mista Latex by the end of the third quarter this year. The street date is currently set up for the last Tuesday in September, however, the label head (Don Lichterman) that is “not written in stone” and “the only real reason I want to rush it out before the end of the third quarter, is to get his project and name placed on the Grammy Nomination Ballot.” Grammy nominations are due by September 30th this year. And, the label (Sunset Urban) is also planning on releasing the debut Nikko Starr CD at the beginning of 2011. Although, Sunset’s Urban record label is currently working (4) full length songs by Nikko (Starr) to its licensing partners and for some airplay, but there is nothing being set up at retail and/or for resale by (Nikko) Starr until early 2011.

Sunset signs production and distribution deal with Memphis based booker and live music promoter, Papa G. Records.

Memphis based record label, promoter, booker and Production Company, Maverick Group Marketing Inc. (MGM) / Papa G. Records and Sunset Records / Sunset Distribution Company have announced today an exclusive worldwide distribution deal through Sunset Records / Sunset Distribution Company. The multi year contract and joint venture between the Memphis based multi-media record company Papa G. Records and with the New York & New Jersey based Sunset Records & Sunset Distribution Company is a deal that will bring current artists like Crushing Juliet and Chosen View to Sunset from the Papa G. label/company.

Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset says that “Papa G. himself (John Garrison) is one of the top A&R people in the world, and my plan is to allow him and his staff to go off to sign any artists he works personally in the Memphis areas,” and “because he books and promotes one of the best halls (The Minglewood) in one of the best music areas in the world (on Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee), I look forward to having him deliver new music to Sunset for many years.” (Don) Lichterman also says that “he (Papa G.) Is on the pulse of picking up on new trends in music” and that Papa G. is also “on the pulse of hearing new bands that play live at the Memphis venues he books live shows.” Lichterman goes on to say that he is “thrilled to work with Papa G. as a great extension to my company,” let alone “watching him do his A&R for Sunset because he has brought me to hear some of the best arrays of music collectively, that I have heard in one sitting in many years.”

The new production and distribution deal will continue to develop, license, and release recorded music and any entertainment related product the Memphis based company (Papa G. Records) delivers to Sunset in any genre and/or in any format. Aside from the initial releases of the alternative rock bands, CHOSEN VIEW (The Common Thread is due in stores: September 21, 2010) and CRUSHING JULIET (Broken Cadillac is due in stores: September 21, 2010) that are being released through the Sunset Record label, Papa G. Records plans to deliver bands in a variety of genres including Blues, Americana, Art Rock, R&B/Soul, Rock N’ Roll, and World music. The first projects through the new Papa G. / Sunset deal is slated for Fall release in 2010 with two new albums, The Common Thread (In Stores 9/21/2010) which is a brand new album from the alternative rock band by CHOSEN VIEW (Sunset Records) and the Broken Cadillac (In Stores 9/14/2010) alternative album by pop rock act, CRUSHING JULIET (Sunset Connect). "Both of these artists are an enormous talent with key songs for radio so I want them out by the end of September this year,” (Don) Lichterman says about the first two Papa G. titles being released in the Sunset Distribution system, “we (Sunset) are extremely psyched to be able to bring his (Papa G.) music, his bands and his sense of direction with music he works to the next obvious level in this industry, I also want to get his music and bands out to more of a mainstream and global audience." The alternative sub modern rock song, “Under The Swell” by the Chosen View’s The Common Thread CD has already begun to impact radio in the US and radio overseas in Italy, and the UK and “Here Today, Gone Tomorrow” on the Broken Cadillac CD have already been placed through two license (to be announced this month) deals both in the United States and in Italy.

MAY 2010

Sunset Recording artist and acclaimed Television Host, Rachel Fine, is tapped as Associate Producer and Interviewer on new Roberta Flack documentary, “Magic Lady.”

Rachel Fine will work as Associate Producer on the Roberta Flack “Magic Lady” documentary feature film with the Pocono Mountains Film Festival Founder, Bridget O. Davis.

Singer, Songwriter, Television Host and Actress, Rachel Fine has begun work with the Pocono Mountains Film Festival on a new Roberta Flack documentary due out later this year. (Rachel) Fine is well known for her recording career (Sunset Records) with her debut album "Own Your Own" in stores all over the world, and she is also well known for hosting the weekly comedy news series "The Bonus Show" for Howard Stern, available on iN DEMAND Networks in over 40 million homes. Rachel co-hosts the show alongside Jon Hein with new episodes available on demand beginning every Monday at midnight. She also hit the entertainment scene with features in Glamour Magazine and on Shade 45 and as the host and red carpet interviewer at Project Runway winner Irina Shabayeva's Fall 2010 show at New York Fashion Week. “This is perfect for Rachel,” says Don Lichterman, head of Sunset Records, “Rachel is thrilled to be working on a film about one of her favorite musical influences, plus she'll get to interview a broad range of top music artists for the film. She is a seasoned pro as TV Host and Announcer but most importantly, (Pocono Mountain Film Festival Founder and "Magic Lady" Director) Bridget (O. Davis) has asked Rachel to sing in the film.” Davis, who is writing, directing and producing the piece says of Fine, "I first became acquainted with Rachel's music in 2009 and immediately heard the influence of 70s funk, Philly Soul and Quiet Storm underneath the trip hop feel. Rachel embodies a generation of today's up and coming artists who still draw inspiration from Roberta's iconic sound and style. I asked her to come aboard as Associate Producer to bring Roberta's story to an ever broader audience. We at the Pocono Mountains Film Festival are very excited to work with Rachel."

Rachel was born in Ohio and spent time working in executive management before becoming a Cable TV Host on Howard TV's "The Bonus Show" and securing a multi faceted recording deal with major indy label Sunset Records. As an activist, she serves as Chief Ambassador to The MacDella Cooper Foundation which is devoted to empowering Liberian youth, especially orphans and abandoned children, by providing education and the basic necessities of food, clothing, and shelter while building the first tuition free schools in post-war Liberia.

Contact ArtistDevelopment@SunsetRecordings.com or visit the Rachel Fine official web sites (www.RachelFine.SunsetRecordings.com and www.RachelFine.com) for all of her information and for all Poconos Film Festival information, visit their official web site (http://www.poconomountainsfilmfestival.net).

Pascal G’s back, singing his “Tale Of Lola” with his English debut CD Album with Tropical Records on May 11th!

Pascal G. is releasing his “Tale Of Lola” CD which comes with a very special music video with Tropical Records.

Pascal Mania is hitting the international music world with 16 songs, plus the “Tale Of Lola” music video on a very special CD set to hit stores on May 11. The first single, “Tale Of Lola” is a captivating, hip-swirling' hit song with that Pascal G. signature Latino style of music. The Spanish version of the single is also included on the CD, along with a very special remix of the song. Every song on this CD is composed in English and in Spanish with a couple remixes of one other remixes song (Chica Latina), along with the music video of “Tale Of Lola” (English Version). And, the teen heart throb shows his own heart with the song, “Come Make A Little Step Of Peace” (Official song for UNICEF Germany), which all proceeds and revenues from the sale of downloads, ringtones, streams and sales of the CD (pro rated) will go direct to UNICEF in Germany.

“Tale Of Lola” is the first English release by the Puerto Rican teen heartthrob – Pascal G. plans on expanding from his Latin American fan base and audience, to the expanding global market around the world with his Tropical Records (a Sunset Recordings, Inc. Company) release. Pascal can sing, write and his heartfelt lyrics are attracts that global audience. Pascal is making that transition from Spanish written and performed songs, to having versions made in English. The music video for “Tale Of Lola” is being released this week. Pascal and his new label, Tropical, are ready to release the CD and music video all over the world.

With a vocal range that sounds like a seasoned veteran, let alone an adult, the teen takes his signature 'Latino sound' to a higher level with this perfectly produced 16 song CD. And, what is evident on the album is an array of pop songs and accessible lyrics that Pascal delivers with his strong vocals. People can compare Pascal G. to be the next Ricky Martin and there is also a Shakira vibe heard in his songs. The album is one to make fans of pop music want to dance and sing along with the hip shaking pop superstar. This is an album that will no doubt lift the spirit of the listener while making you want to “shake your booty” on the dance floor.

Don Lichterman, the head of Tropical says that he is “thrilled to work this international styled music artist and that for such young aged performer, he is very adult like when it comes to his music.” (Don) Lichterman goes on to say that “I also love the added value having his “Tale Of Lola” music video included on the specially priced CD.” The idea to use the music video as part of the CD came from (Don) Lichterman although he is quick to give that credit to his manufacturing arm and partner, ELS Productions. “Honestly, the fact that Mark (McClelland) at ELS said it was a no brainer to release the new CD with the music video, made it an easy decision.” The label does insist that the SRLP (Standard Retail List Price) will stay at the normal $15.98 although the label will mark it down further to a $9.99 retail base price for both digital downloads and for physical CDs. Tropical will release the “Tale Of Lola” CD worldwide to stores on May 11th!

Rachel Fine signs with Sunset Records.

Multi faceted entertainer, Rachel Fine signs a multi faceted record deal with Sunset.

In recent months, Rachel Fine has put the finishing touch on her debut album, Own Your Own, also showcasing that music to the great Village crowds at some ultra hip and avant garde music venues in downtown New York City. (Rachel) Fine’s nouveau and neo soul vocal style caught the ears of Sunset Records label head, Don Lichterman who said that “not only will we expand her distribution, her songs will be available right away for our licensing partners to work.” Fine will now join the roster at the independent label Sunset Records, the current home to quirky alternative act, the Federal Moguls (Q-Ball from The Bloodhound Gang, Troy Walsh) along with Grayscale (Featured Now on FMQB’s CD) and the Universal Music Switzerland International pop star, now at Tropical/Sunset Sunset, Pascal G. The label has also had successful efforts in the last two years with critically acclaimed artists like Richaste (Produced by Pat Aeby (Krokus)), House On The Hill, Down From Zero (Top Ten at AOL/MTV’s Our Stage) and Steve Garcia (“9 West” CD due out August 2010).

Fine’s debut CD is expected to be released worldwide this summer, with a temporary street date set for July 27. “My goal with Rachel is to not only make sure she knows that she has a home to release her music,” says (Don) Lichterman, “she also is very opened to having her music worked in some cool ways.” The label also has plans to work her upcoming release to the “college market, alternative music market and to the adult (AAA, HOT AC, AC) music markets,” says the label head (Don Lichterman). Prior to the CD release this summer, (Rachel) Fine has another very special live performance set up on June 4th at the beautiful Gallery Bar located in the lower village in New York City.

(Don) Lichterman also made hints to the artists doing “live downloads” of her shows to be released at Sunset Live (www.Sunset-Live.com). For now, the label will now begin to set up the new “Own Your Own” CD for the upstart neo soul vocal music artist, Rachel Fine.

MARCH 2010

Sing And Sign A Language: Spanish Opens up a World of Spanish Language Learning for the Children’s marketplace.

Sunset Strategic Marketing (SSM) is setting up their first release that will tap into the children’s marketplace with the Sign and Sign a Language: Spanish three (3) CD Set.

The “Sing And Sign A Language: Spanish” CD Set is not only a specially packaged three (3) CD set, the initial concept for this type of a release was also produced to create a learning kit for children in their greatest development years. The entire set was then developed by Susan Dezenhall Schwartz along with sound man, Eric Aubrey at his Red Armadillo recording facility outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The entire project was produced, performed and recorded by (Susan Dezenhall) Schwartz, a linguist, composer, vocalist, educator and mother.

(Susan Dezenhall) Schwartz, unimpressed with the educational programs available for children’s learning, decided to create a learning program herself and for the students she teaches every day. Starting this inevitable series of language learning products with Spanish became the obvious choice considering the ethnicity of children in her classes. However, Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Records / SSM says that there are “plans to franchise this concept with more languages like Hebrew and French,” and that was always “the plan with Susan and me from day one.”

After three years of study, research and development, this very special set comes out as a CD and the label has already made way for the entire set to be available as downloads and ringtones. Lichterman goes on to say that “Susan (Dezenhall Schwartz) seems thrilled to have this be placed in stores,” and “I am thrilled to be working a project for kids.” This is first educational related product released at the Sunset/SSM company and the launch of this premier Spanish set “Sing and Sign A Language: Spanish” is perfect to educate and the songs are a great listen. The set includes not only lyric’s in Spanish, there is also a translation to English in the nicely packaged inside booklet and there are lesson plans for kids to follow along with too. The label; has these booklets available online (pdf) for everyone to download and print them out for free.

What is now called, The Sing and Sign a Language Series as a concept takes a unique approach at teaching the Spanish language to children and after hearing the Spanish CD set from beginning to end, it is easy to see how teaching and learning languages can be fun, colorful, easy and enjoyable. The “Sing And Sign” approach is set up to simulate a fun learning environment by introducing easy words to learn in every day conversations, introducing vocabulary through a story, keying on commonly spoken words, terms, sentences, phrases for easy use every day, uses an array of teaching resources and materials for children’s and parents to learn these lessons in an efficient way, and most of all, the goal is to keep things fun while learning. Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset said that "the best part of about this project is the overall reaction to it, and I am confidant by the pre sales at Amazon, let alone that initial reaction to the set, that this will be a great teaching and learning tool for kids and parents."Not only do I feel this set help people teach and learn Espanol, the songs are great to listen to in general,” says (Don) Lichterman about the three CD set.

The CD includes songs that sound like classics/standards like the “Bienvenidos” and “Adios” intro and outré to each lesson plan, is not only accessible to people, it is also recognizable in some ways. And, there are a total of thirty seven (37) Spanish versions of songs that sound like there is choir of kids singing behind the lead vocals. The songs are also set up in ways for children to learn in a chronological way and to be able to follow along with throughout the entire Set. Disc one is Lesson I / Level I while the second disc is for Lesson/Level Plan II and then the third disc is the Level II lesson plan. Consumers will be able to buy all three (3) CDs in one set from retail stores that sell CDs and DVDs, and consumers will also be able to buy individual songs and the individual Discs at stores that sell downloads and streams. The overall sound is very colorful and the CD is perfect to listen to at home, in a car, as well as with teachers and parents.

Moreover, "Sing and Sign a Language" is a multi purpose type of a CD release that is to be used at home and the label also will be working with Alibris to get the product into libraries and educational facilities around the world. The label plans to work this into school programs and/or educational enrichment programs that teach the languages. And, teachers, educators and parents do not need to know the Spanish language to use this product in an effective and efficient way. Parents and teachers will learn the language too as they teach it. Both English and Spanish are translated as part of the special packaging. The lesson plans are also included in that special packaging.

The "Sing and Sign A Language: SPANISH" is the debut release and there are plans to create more multimedia educational projects at SSM. The content on the CD set tells a story in a way to help you learn every day things about life.
For more information about the “Sing And Sign A Language: Spanish” CD Set and language series, please visit www.SingAndSign.SunsetRecordings.com.

 

Indie Record Label to open Merchandise Company this week offering officially licensed product and band merchandise with both new and established artists.

Online Retail Company, Sunset Vending is being launched this week by founder Don Lichterman.

New online music merchandise retailer Sunset Vending (www.Sunset-Vending.com) is being launched by Sunset Records founder Don Lichterman. The new online merch company is designed to accompany products made for his new music artists signed to the Sunset labels, with legendary branded music artists like The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix and AC/DC. Sunset Vending has also signed specific license deals to resell and offer popular branded items by iconic organizations and estates like Sesame Street, Star Trek, Marylyn Monroe, Star Wars, John Wayne, Betty Boop, DC Comics (Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman), Looney Tunes (Taz, Bugs Bunny, Tweeter and Sylvester), Snoopy and the Peanuts gang along with many more official licensed deals that are currently in place. And along with many new license deals that are coming to the company.

Sunset Vending will set up its artists from its indie labels with specific popular merchandise items that bands will be able to sell online at Sunset Vending, at their own websites, at the labels web sites, at Amazon’s store along with being able to sell these products at their live shows. Sunset distributes (Sunset Distribution Company) an array of established and brand new acts like Sekshun 8, Gina Thompson, Federal Moguls (QBall from Bloodhound Gang), Anthony Geraci, TenPenny Joke, Down From Zero, Capt. Crunk, Original Black Pantah, I Kong along with Mark Simmons, Deon Cole, Kevin Hart and other live recordings from shows at the Laff House Comedy Club. “I am in hope that the Sunset Vending Company will give us the ability to showcase some cool band merchandise," says Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Vending, “and that has already begun to pay off because even just yesterday; I picked up a unique product line hand made by a fan of the band Sekshun 8.”

(Don) Lichterman then says, that he “implemented the merch company’s business plan in the same exact way that I started my other companies at Sunset, which is to accompany my new signings with established, branded and legendary music artists.” Sunset Vending plans to allow bands to get their merchandise into dedicated fans hands without having to buy them at shows and Sunset Vending will also be selling official licensed products by popular music artists.

JANUARY 2010

Sunset Live (www.Sunset-Live.com) is honored to join OurStage, MTV Networks and their partners to bring our community live streaming coverage of “Hope for Haiti”.

The live concert downloads will also be available at iTunes after the show ends tonight. The Hope For Haiti Concert features live performances by Wyclef Jean, George Clooney and CNN’s Anderson Cooper will host the two-hour global telethon airing Friday, January 22 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. And, the celebrities also scheduled to appear in support of relief efforts include Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson, Shakira, Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Dave Matthews, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift, Sheryl Crow, Kid Rock, Keith Urban, Coldplay, Bono, The Edge, Jay-Z, Beyonce, Rihanna...Go To Sunset-Live.com to see the show!

DECEMBER 2009

Sunset moves its record label web sites to the Secure Green Web Hosting Platform and Web Servers Powered By Wind and Solar Energy

Sunset Records moved over 60 web sites last week to its new web servers powered by wind technology and solar energy

Sunset, the “greenest” record company in the world, takes its environmental campaigns to another level by using Wind Powered Technologies' and Solar Powered energies’ to provide its’ Web application security, Storage for its web servers along with its PCI compliance for its record label and artist hosted web sites. Sunset will continue to provide the current and the future artists signed to the label, their own private portals providing security, SQL relational databases and a Cross Platform Site Script. In addition, Sunset now has their servers at their specific co-location with dedicated hosting for its label web sites and artists web sites.

Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset say that "After using a few solutions over the last three years, and considering my vision for my online infrastructure at Sunset, dealing with this transition now was an easy decision to make this month.” (Don) Lichterman goes onto say that “moving our content to our new servers is not only the first step in becoming environmentally sound at work, it is also long overdue for us to be using an environmentally conscious, carbon neutral online business model,” and “it starts with how we house our content on its servers.” Lichterman also feels that in doing this now at Sunset, “we will always be able to cater to our growing company and this is just more incentive and added value that our staff and artists get when you work at the world's greenest record label".

Sunset is also known for starting one of the most comprehensive and critically acclaimed digital only record labels this last year with Sunset Connect (www.SunsetConnect.com). "(Sunset) Connect became very well known this year and the press has been over the top great for us gaining the recognition after starting a label like Sunset Connect this year,” says Lichterman, and “now, there is zero hypocrisy which is why I felt so good after making that change this month.” Sunset will also provide their staffers, labels and artists even more secure and even more compliant to the digital millennium Acts and “without a huge investment in resources and/or man hours,” and Lichterman ends the conversation saying that “I am so happy to have this added value implemented to our online solution."

Sunset is one of the forefront runners and one of the most innovative record labels in the world. The company’s web site infrastructure is powered with 100% renewable wind and solar energy (90% wind, 10% solar) rendering its servers and business operations carbon neutral. Don Lichterman and his Sunset record Labels take practicing social responsibility and its overall Green Movement on its daily business operations, to another level this month.

Mac Dividinz gets set up with Sunset Urban with their debut international release of Hypersonic!

Hypersonic is the debut CD by Mac Dividinz being released at Sunset Urban.

Some veteran rap and hip-hop aficionados have articulated many concerns over the direction of hardcore rap in the recent years and dating back to the early 90’s. Their argument is that hardcore rap told a story with a heavy conscience in the '80s, and then rap segued to talking about their own bling while they dove in sports cars pitting east coast and west coast rappers proudly referring to their own selves as, a “thug” while smoking blunts surrounded by “bitches, hoes, and hotties shaking big booties.” However, in today’s world, rap can be very positive and uplifting with MCs and popular rap bands like the Roots, Too $hort, Public Enemy, Common, Eminem, Ice T, Blackalicious as well as other rappers that sing with that hardcore and style that is very much in your face. Mac Dividinz’s debut album, Hypersonic, is no doubt hardcore and no doubt in your face from beginning to end of this CD. The Oklahoma-based rapper was a teen when he initially started rapping music while today; his songs have grown to be very accessible to any audience that loves rap music. He speaks about socio concerns in a very severe way.

For instance with the initial single being worked to the urban radio format to stations all over the world, “I Got This" communicates an accessible story geared to grab anyone from any socio environment. Hypersonic is not an album filled with songs with words that are making an attempt to save the world, “but he is no doubt sending a huge message to the world,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Urban. (Don) Lichterman goes on to say that it’s a “tribute to his (Mac Dividinz) talent and that he loves what he does with rapping his music” and that Sunset Urban is releasing a “serious rap album that is an unprecedented 67 minutes long CD.” The Mac Dividinz debut album a quintessential down and dirty rap album that will overwhelm rap music lovers with the “in your face” style and “in your face” music theme. “(Mac) Dividinz is not reinventing the wheel so to speak,” says (Don Lichterman from Sunset, “it is one the best rap albums from beginning to end in a very long time and I mean every song on Hypersonic is a top level.” The overall beat coupled with his rap, is contagious, deep and is very strong music. (Mac) Dividinz has great melodies with catchy hooks on every song. The sixteen (16) songs on the Hypersonic CD is an entertaining example of down home hardcore rap music.

Born David Jones and raised in Oklahoma, USA, (Mac) Dividinz grew up with an eye on his artist career. As a teen, he followed the lead of his influences growing up by writing and performing on his own, until he eventually sent in the “raps” to (Don) Lichterman at Sunset Urban. Bothe Sunset and Dividinz feel this is the perfect fit considering the career of Mac (Dividinz) and with Sunset Urban, the hip hop and rap label at Sunset. “I was so impressed with his rap, it took me days to close that deal,” says Lichterman whom signed the up and coming rap artist to his Sunset Urban Record label. The label had initially hope to get it out this year but considering the length of the full length CD and its sixteen (16) songs; it was worth waiting until the street day in 2010 on January 26th.

NOVEMBER 2009

Master M.C. Makes Sunset Urban Debut with "Mezclando Estilos"

Sunset Urban Records has set November 17th as the street date for the excitedly anticipated label debut from the Latin rap superstar Master M.C.

Released through Sunset Urban Records, the album is already being called a breakthrough in the Latin hip-hop format and genre of music. When Master M.C. inked a worldwide deal with Sunset Urban this year, he became the first artist in the Latin hip-hop genre to sign with the major Indy urban styled record label. Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Urban, calls the Master M.C. debut CD "a melodic voyage of Latin and Afro Caribbean ethos.” (Don) Lichterman continues to say that “the music is a constant groove with poetic words in ”espanol” of all things, but I am told what he is rapping to us very much from deep within Misael’s (Master M.C,.) heart.” and “for me, I hear a high level unique synthesis of so many dance elements taken from customary Latin styles crossing over to traditional Urban blending hip-hop, rap and I even hear elements that are Jamaican reggae, blues, Cuban rumba, bomba puertorriqueña and New York salsa all blended into 10 songs on this CD.”

“The variety of pleasant sounding styles that Master M.C. brings together on "MEZCLANDO ESTILOS" is echoed in the array of music he produces throughout the entire album,” says Lichterman. Steering clear of the do to excess of computer-driven music of today, Master M.C. brings vocal music blended with percussion and brass creating a bright sounding classic groove of rhythms that rivals legendary salsa greats and hip-hop stars today.

"MEZCLANDO ESTILOS" contains 10 dance tracks all written by Misael Rosado, a.k.a. Master M.C. The first single for the Latin, Urban and Hip-hop markets is " Desde Que Te Conosi," with the entire CD self produced by Master M.C.

After announcing Master M.C.’s signing to Sunset Urban in the spring of 2009, Sunset Urban Chairman/CEO Don Lichterman stated, "The commercial boom for developing new Latin styled music fused with other styles has been going on for a long time in the U.S., and with Master M.C., in the middle of me listing to his music for the first time earlier this year, I knew he would be the perfect next signing to the Sunset Urban label.” Lichterman says that the “Latin hip-hop genre of music had been seeping into the mainstream and honestly, Master M.C.’s unique and innovative style of music is what made me want to sign him that day.” Lichterman ends by saying that he plans on setting up Master M.C. as one of the “top new urban driven Latin music artists in the world,” and that “the signing of Master M.C. is perfect for Sunset Urban.”

Born and raised in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Misael Rosado - AKA "Master M.C." – has quickly garnered international acclaim because of his unique musical style, which blends salsa grooves, ;Latin raps and Afro-Caribbean rhythms with hip-hop and even a reggaeton / dancehall reggae feel. Lyrically, he has touched into new ground releasing an album in Spanish inspired by his genuine roots in life, crafting grooves with a social message that touches into racism, poverty, and class repression. Master M.C. brings together hip-hop in modern Spanish, and his continuous grooves in his songs are what make Master M.C.'s demand  transcend the economy issues of today, race issues of today and all social issues of today, as this debut CD has crossover capability.

Hardcore Rap / Hip Hop artist, Mac Dividinz, gets ready to break new ground by Signing Record Deal with Sunset Urban

Sunset Urban Records, an independent hip-hop and rap record label, announces the signing with Mac Dividinz.

Sunset Urban Records is set up to distribute market and promote the debut Mac Dividinz CD, Hypersonic due to hit stores by the end of the year. Mac Dividinz will work the new CD to be distributed through the developing network of distribution resources available through the Sunset Urban Records system.

The first release under the new deal is set to be released on December 15 and the Rap and Hip-hop artist is mastering that debut in the studio this week. A veteran producer Dividenz has produced or recorded many artists, but this is the first solo project released on a major Indy level.

Additionally, the Sunset Urban label is starting to work its music through the Universal Motown distribution system and the new Hip Hop artist will be the first sunset act set up this way. Sunset will digitally distribute the debut CD through the Universal Motown web site portal beginning December 15th. The first release by the unique rapper is being set up this week at Sunset.

He's one of those artists with an incredible and unique rap style and his words are innovative which is what made me want to close this deal this year," said Sunset Urban Records Founder Don Lichterman. "(Mac) Dividenz is the perfect addition to the Sunset Urban roster and we are using him to as a guinea pig so to speak, as the first artist set up with our new distribution system in place," Lichterman continues to say about the Mac Dividinz signing this week.

OCTOBER 2009

Sunset Records Strikes Deal to Integrate its Mobile Content with Vio Mobile

Agreement Will Enable Vio Mobile Users and Vio Distribution Partners to Seamlessly Release Sunset Records Contextually Relevant Ringtones at Hundreds of Retailers and Mobile Carriers All Over The World!

Sunset Records announced today it has signed an agreement with Vio Mobile, one of the industry’s leaders in mobile distribution, to provide mobile ringtones across several mobile retail channels, with hundreds of mobile carriers in territories all over the world.

Under this newly signed mobile distribution agreement, Sunset Records ringtones will be integrated into the Vio Mobile distribution network, enabling millions of users globally to effortlessly discover Sunset’s mobile content. Vio Mobile is also integrating its distributed ringtone catalog with the popular electronics company, Acer, for branded purchases so buyers of the new Acer MP3 Player, can discover its music on the new Acer media player. Sunset Records will also ensure that its links to the Vio Mobile website are set up integrated on every artist page. The Sunset artist pages are set up that when fans click through the links off their artist pages, they will be offered ringtones, playback tunes, wallpaper graphics and all relevant mobile content.

“The Sunset Records partnership with Vio Mobile emphasizes our continued expansion to get our music placed in every worldwide distribution channel and then also highlights how we can integrate our content with ease,” says Don Lichterman, the Head of Sunset Records. “I was impressed right away with what Ivan (Woodson) has built at his company,” says Lichterman about this deal and that he is “confident that Vio Mobile partners and its users will be able to find our mobile content in every network and all over the world.”

With this deal in place today, Sunset will have its catalog of recorded music available through the Vio Mobile network of over TWO HUNDRED (200) mobile carriers around the world.

SEPTEMBER 2009

Latin Hip Hop dance Artist Master MC has officially signed a new record deal with the New York City based, Sunset Urban Records.

Sunset Urban signs the Master MC to a worldwide recording deal, the new album is due out in mid November this year.

When Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Urban and Sunset Records, first heard the music of Master MC, he says that “there was no doubt that I felt he was the next ingredient to add to the Urban label.” (Don) Lichterman has implemented one of the most cutting edge urban styled record labels last year. With this latest signing of Master MC this week, he (Lichterman) has grown the Urban styled record label with an artist roster boasting 5 of the most cutting edge and colorful hip-hop recording artists in the world, Lil Dynomite, Capt. Crunk, Blackwell (“Lost But Found” peaked at #6 at WZZA this year) and of course the platinum selling Gina Thompson released her “Missing You” CD at the upstart label early this year. Not to mention, (Don) Lichterman has orchestrated the production deals with Blackwell’s, NYCE Music (Lil Dynomite) and with Rod Millwood (Mykal Rose, Don Ward, Kevin Hart, Gina Thompson) making them “Staff Producers” at Sunset Urban Records.

Sunset Urban is fast becoming one of the more successful independent music labels in the world. The Sunset Urban roster of artists scanned more than 23,000 downloads, streams and ringtones in the last few months, making this a label to watch within this genre. “I just love the fact that Miseal (Master MC) breaks through many international cultures with his music,” says Don Lichterman, “I love the fact that some of my favorite songs he is recording for this album, are in Espanola.”Lichterman then says about the signing that "We have an implausible array of colorful music at Sunset Urban, I just love the way this label has evolved in the last year."And, hip hop fans will not have to wait long for another Sunset Urban release which excites (Don ) Lichterman, “I honestly did not think we were going to release any other music after Blackwell’s, Chocolate Audio CD this year because that is out within two weeks.” The label now hopes that Master MC will emerges as the newest success story at Sunset Urban.

Hailed on the east coast as one of the most original and colorful artists, Master MC is now in the studio recording the final few songs for the newest CD. The label is setting the new CD for a mid November release in order to get the CD into stores this year. The label head expect to get the final masters at some point this week.

For up to date information about Master MC, you can visit the official Sunset Urban artist page, www.MasterMC.SunsetUrban.com.

Blackwell continues his 2000’s surge to the top of the Urban Music community with the release of his next multi-faceted Chocolate Audio CD.

Sunset Urban gets ready for the fall release of the next Blackwell CD, Chocolate Audio, is all set to hit stores on October 6th.

Calling on influences of the likes of heavyweight hip hop and rap music artists, Blackwell has churned out his next full length CD entitled, Chocolate Audio, just in time for the holidays this year. Self produced, the CD is yet another colorful blend of melodic hip hop songs by the exceptional lyricist and producer, Blackwell. Blackwell blends his colorful grooves into slow-melodic-jam styled R&B infusion with great harmonies, as is the case on all three Blackwell CDs (Un4giveable, Heartbreak) released at Sunset Urban. Blackwell also blends his usual catchy hip-hop style on this groovy and soulful full length album, with the exceptional harmonies he produces into his songs. The first single, "Think Twice," is yet another great sample of his unique approach to hip-hop music and Blackwell did garner some successes at radio with his Heartbreak CD, as did the follow-up single "Lost But Found 2009 Mix," which Lost But Found did peak at #6 this year at WSCA radio. Blackwell has also produced another MTV music video that you can find online starting this month, and the album features many of his up-and-coming artists signed through his NYCE Music production company.

And, his latest CD, Chocolate Audio is the perfect testament to Blackwell’s lovable overweight Casanova persona that shows off his way with women. Blackwell's production is noticeably unyieldingly tightly put together with his up-tempo sound in songs like, "Where It All Started Part 3." “Michael (Blackwell) gets carte blanche with me and this album is perfectly put together for the label. Plus, we have a great single with Think Twice that will be worked to Urban Radio all over the world,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Urban. Lichterman continues by saying that “Blackwell's respect in the urban and hip-hop culture is evidenced by the radio play he gets day one and with minimal effort.”

Blackwell is best known for his NYCE Music Group company bringing up top hip hop artists like his label mate Lil Dynomite, Sunset Urban Records signed him to a production deal in 2008. He released his “Heartbreak” CD last year as a front line CD at Sunset Urban and the label also released his debt self released Un4givable CD through its Sunset Strategic Marketing company as a catalog title. “It’s a great campaign and this guy is a total work horse in the music industry,” says Lichterman about Blackwell. Blackwell does stay true to his obvious unique roots style of hip hop music. Currently Blackwell’s single, ’Think Twice,’ is already set up to be released as a download, ringtone and as a track on the full length CD.

Track listing

Split Theze Barz (Entro)
Drop Dat Zero
Waiting (Interlude)
Patiently Waiting
Morning After
Shorty Wanna Ride
Tha Curb
Swagga Back
Where It All Started Part 3
(I Want A) BBW Club Mix
Think Twice
Lost But Found (2009 Mix)
Un4Givable (Street Anthem)
Sick Of You

APRIL 2009

Sunset Urban Recording artist LIL DYNOMITE teams up with NYCE producer Blackwell to bring you the “Blowin’ Up The Mic” CD on April 28th!

Lil Dynomite of Sunset Urban Records and her Blowing Up The Mic CD is set to hit stores on April 28. The talented recording artist is teaming up with top producer, Blackwell whom produced the full length CD. The label started working the first single, “Different Breed” to radio beginning this week.

As part of their growth in the last year, the Sunset Urban label will releases two CDs this month (Lil Dynomite’s Blowing Up the Mic CD and Capt. Crunk’s Freestyle Crunk CD) and Lil Dynomite will appear at Festivals throughout the entire summer in support of the debut CD being released on April 28. During her live appearances this summer, Lil Dynomite will sign autographs, take pictures and meet her fans during the festivals. She will spend her summer singing her anthems, such as the first single, “Different Breed” which a song every female should hear today. The head of Sunset Urban, Don Lichterman says that “the song was done last year and has nothing to do with the popular artists Rhianna and Chris Brown.” Different Breed is a song about women’s abuse and “we just love the song and because it’s timely, I am working it to radio as the top single,” says Lichterman.

Lil Dynomite is noticeably one of the top rappers that will be one of the more successful female MC's of our generation. “That song Ba Ba Blacksheep,” says Don Lichterman, “is totally unique hip hop song,” and that seems to be part of the appeal when signing a deal with Lichterman’s Sunset Urban. In the northeast United States, Lil Dynomite is no doubt one of the most recognized up and coming female rap and hiphop artists in the music industry. With an unquestionable good look, a unique way of writing her material and combined with her down to earth personality, Lil Dynomite has set a very high standard for new women in rap music. Lil Dynomite sees the value and need to empower young women to reach for their goals no matter what their situation is in life. It is not doubt to see that this young star understands her inevitable fame and notoriety will allow for her to present a positive influence for young women.

The Lil Dynomite Blowing Up The Mic CD has a prominent remix with the song, “Question” remixed by Blackwell. When she first stepped on the scene last year playing live in concert, she caught the attention of Blackwell whom turned the music quickly over to Lichterman (Don) to sign at the label. And, just like every fun loving young female growing up in the hip-hop world, her music and personal life have been a constant evolution. Her debut album, "Blowin Up The Mic" which gets worked to radio starting April 13, is now ready for major retail stores on April 28.

MARCH 2009

Sunset Urban Records Artist Capt. Crunk To Release Highly Anticipated Live Freestyle HipHop CD

Sunset Urban Records artist Capt. Crunk announces the worldwide release of "Freestyle Crunk," a 12 song full length CD on March 31. His Freestyle CD will be bundled with his previous hiphop album released at the label last year. The freestyle CD will be available for purchase at the starting low SRP of $9.99.

Capt. Crunk will began playing live again this year starting this week in new York City at the Karma Theater. Since the beginning of the year, he has produced these extremely anticipated  freestyle rap songs with a tight knit group of people. Crunk just lately brought the concept CD to Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Urban Records. And, the “Speed Crunk” track it's quickly impacting hardcore Urban styled radio stations and including college radio stations. To listen to the Freestyle Rap CD in its entirety, it si now available at every online retail outlet and you can always go to www.Capt. Crunk.SunsetUrban.com

Capt. Crunk stated from the ASCAP offices in New York City that he "loves freestyle rapping” and that he “loves that people want to hear me rap this way.” Crunk goes on to say that “when extreme things happen in my life, I love making it into a song and the fact that people are entertained by these raps, is incredible for me!"

Capt. Crunk released his debut album, "It’s A Hell Of A Drug," in the summer of 2008, to great acclaim within the hiphop community, the album became well known also for its controversial artwork.

The Twelve Song Full Length Fresstyle Crunk CD listing is as follows:

1.   Get Dat Dough
2.   Treez N Liqs 
3.   Seed Coming 
4.   I Deliver 
5.   Born U Lames 
6.   12:01 
7.   Twisted 
8.   Speed Crunk 
9.   Lost 
10. I'll Tell U Y 
11. Open The Door 
12. So Real 

All songs on the Freestyle Crunk CD are previously commercially unreleased and are all new songs by Capt. Crunk.

Capt. Crunk and his live Freestyle hip-hop sound will perform in New York City at the Karma Theater

For the first time this year, New York City will behold the impressive Hip-hop & R&B event as five of the freshest freestyle artists rap together at the Karma Theater.
 

Dubbed the “Live 09 Hip Hop & R&B Concert”, this one-night only concert on April 8 features some of the best freestyle rappers in the Bronx – Capt. Crunk, Hardkore, Da Black Pope, B.L.O. and Da Orlock – performing back to back after one another to deliver their freestyle style of live music to New York City hip hop fans.

Multi faceted and the Sunset Urban recording artist Capt. Crunk, known for his real life style of rap and for his freestyle of rap is a favorite for live performances. “Crunk always thrives playing live giving people a great night of hip-hop music,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Urban, “he is made for the live stage and no doubt will he play some of his more popular songs such as “Club Crunk”, “Haunted Thoughts”, “Gunz & Drugz”, “Lost Souls” and then now, there is so much more material to play now that we are releasing his Freestyle Crunk CD today.” Capt. Crunk will no doubt give these fans a serious set of rap music.

Performing with Capt Crunk is some of the local favorite hip hop acts and the show is hosted by none other than Knowledge. Capt. Crunk first turned heads in the music industry last year by showing up on Grammy Nomination Ballot in 2008 many times for the award show this year. His debut, It’s A Hell Of A Drug” gained critical acclaim last year and at the same time, turned heads last year with its controversial cover artwork when the CD was refused to be stocked at the major retail chain, Target. His new freestyle original “Speed Crunk” is being added to hardcore urban radio stations around the world. Expect many freestyle songs along with original songs from the debut studio CD.

Catch these sensational rap and hip-hop styled artists perform for one night only at the “Live 09 Hip Hop & R&B Concert” at the Karma Theater on April 8 at 8:00 p.m. It’s the first time playing together this year, and with all the hype surrounding the show, it’s truly going to be a must-see concert in downtown Manhattan!
 

Lil Dynomite Ready to Embark on a Summer Filled with festival Concerts!

Sunset Urban recording artist sets up a summer of live shows at popular east coast festivals in support of her new Blowin Up The Mic CD due to hit stores on April 28.

The Maine-based Female MC hip-hop artist, Lil Dynomite has been busy recording her new CD and getting ready to play live all summer in support of that new release. Fresh out of the studio which began sessions last year, she finished up her first CD for Sunset Urban Records this month. Her Blowin Up The Mic Tour has her playing at major music festivals in the northeast and in Maine and speaking of young women that have great empowerment, Lil Dynomite took over the hip-hop scene by performing many times in 2008, (Lil) Dynomite is not even close to slowing her concert schedule down this year.

The head of the Sunset Urban label, Don Lichterman said in a press release that she is now rehearsing every day and preparing for a run of shows that start in late May at the memorial weekend Peace Jam festival, and will not stop until the very special September 11th Music Festival in Harmony, Maine and then ending at this year’s Harvest Music Festival. While playing live to this broad of an audience, Lil Dynomite can not only show her talents as one of the today’s’ best MCs and hip-hop rappers, this is a great opportunity to mix art and music.

Her debut album, Blowing Up The Mic is produced by Blackwell and is due to be in stores on April 28th. She was last heard on the Sunset Urban and Blackwell Heartbreak CD. As the first female hip-hop and rap style artist at Sunset Urban and with the new LP produced by Blackwell, Lil Dynomite is posed to help reinvent the hip-hop music scene and plans to bring all of her young fans along for the ride all summer long!

Tour dates:
5/22/2009 - 5/24/2009  - Peace Jam Festival, Harmony, ME
7/16/2009 - 7/19/2009  - Sommerset County Jam Music Festival, Harmony, ME
8/1/2009 - 8/3/2009  - Beltek, Belmont, ME
8/14/2009 - 8/16/2009  - Be Here Now Festival, Starks, ME
8/20/2009 - 8/23/2009  - Hempstock, Harmony, ME
9/11/2009 - 9/13/2009  - We Be Jammin', Harmony, ME
10/1/2009 - 10/4/2009  - Harvest Festival, Maine

For more information about any of these scheduled live shows, visit LilDynomite.SunsetUrban.com for a detailed map to every concert.

To book interviews, appearances or to book any night shows during the festival season: don.lichterman@sunseturban.com (646) 670.8589.

NYCE Music Group Announces Production Deal with Sunset Urban

First Release to Be the Highly Anticipated Lil Dynomite Album.

The brand new Ohio based urban/hip-hop production company, NYCE Music Production Company, has just announced a production deal for retail and digital distribution with the Sunset Urban Record Company. Sunset Records distributes Sunset Urban and the deal encompasses all music and video releases brought to the label by the NYCE Music Group.

NYCE is an urban music and lifestyle production company that finds and records new urban recording artists. Production company founder and owner Michael Blackwell is also the artist known as Blackwell says, "The NYCE Music Group is a music network, Production Company which I started to be able expose the best in independent Urban and Hip-Hop music. With the backing of Sunset Urban, I will now be able use the resources of the record label, as well as releasing original videos for home video DVD and for video downloads. The newly created deal with Sunset Urban & Sunset Records gives me the ability and the access to working our music through one of the major independent record labels and distribution companies in the world. We will be able to attain a much greater fan base for the music that comes out of my production company. And, when Don (Lichterman) came to me about this deal today, I was very excited knowing this was the best of every world for NYCE!”
The Sunset Urban release schedule is set up with the NYCE artist releases starting already next month in April. Sunset Urban already is filled with an incredible roster of hip-hop artists. The debut release brought to the label by Blackwell and his NYCE production company is the female hip-hop sensation, Lil Dynomite, and her debut release is on April 28. The full length CD is also the great platform that shows the production chops of the Canton, Ohio based hip-hop aficionado, Blackwell. The leading indie hip-hop and soul artist is one of the premier rap artists whose sophomore album features his first signing NYCE is running through Sunset.

Other NYCE music and video titles are set in place for Sunset Urban in 2009 and that does not include the initial Blackwell Un4givable album and the radio friendly Heartbreak CD which is already being run through Sunset Urban. Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Urban and Sunset Records says, “Michael (Blackwell) is one of the great artists to work. He gives you so much marketing on his own that I wanted to find bigger ways to use his talent. He is not only a great artist work, I expect his production work to be great and I saw that with Lil Dynomite after one second.” Lichterman then says that “after listening to the Lil Dynomite album, I just want to make his production company and our label more valuable because of this deal.”

The NYCE Music Group has the enviable opportunity to use the Sunset Urban record label staff and its company resources being a major Indy Record Company to manufacture, distribute, promote, market and represent their music and video material for many years. The impressive release schedule by Sunset this year is a direct reflection of the innovative and artistic management as well as the label’s commitment to developing some of the most acclaimed independent music to the world. The mixture of having direct access to a leading Indy label at Sunset with Major Indy distribution through CBuJ Entertainment, NYCE should be able to find new urban styled music for the Sunset Urban Record label.

For more information on NYCE Music, contact Michael Blackwell.

FEBRUARY 2009

The Founder of Sunset Records Opens One of the World’s Most Extensive Animal Friendly and Vegan Related Web Sites

Veg Hed opens its online store providing products never used with animals and strategic partners with activists that are against all forms of animal cruelty.

A New Jersey based organization with shared office space at Sunset in New York City, Veg Hed is now the best resource for “vegan” product and related care products from top brands, and is also set up as a very precise way to find out about pivotal animal activist companies. The company also extended its range of releasing music and video by releasing organic and eco friendly related DVD titles.

Known for its quality of music and innovative record label structure, Sunset is finding ways to use its resources for various forms of activism and awareness. Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset is also the founder of the Sustainable Action Network and the Green Junkee online retail store. Lichterman says, “Veg Hed is an extension within our office and we are doing a series of special markets CDs with a concept of using only music artists that eat veggie every day and artists that are against animal cruelty. This is my way to fulfill my larger dream of being able to do more for humans and animals in this world. Having the ability to promote and distribute products with top retail outlets like Amazon and Target gives us an instant reach at 12% of the online retail marketplace.”

Veg Hed not only will release its own product line, the site brings together other vegan product lines and links to vegan fashion stores. Veg Hed also has up to date information with a few of the top animal activist companies in the world. Without many great resources for shopping for vegan items online, and to gain information about vegetarian living and organizations that do incredible things for wildlife, Veg Hed brings this together on one web site.

Lichterman says, “Unless you are looking for a specific item that you use all the time, using products not tested on animals and using products, let alone products that have no animal product could be difficult to find online and in stores. I am trying to find ways to make this so easy for people to buy these types of products all together in one order. I am also trying to use top brands that manufacturer product without any animals. And, I want to make sure people know they have easy choices to buy every type of product that does not use animals. This is more about awareness and reaching out to a more mainstream consumer while explaining this to them in a very easy way.”

Consumers are able to buy Sunset DVDs and Sunset CDs that are related to wildlife as well as strategically partnered companies with products that manufacturer vegan styles clothing, cosmetics, and clothing along with products from the PETA (People For The Ethical Treatment Of Animals) Mall, the ASCAP store, the Sea Sheperd online store and items from the North Shore Animal League. The store is also affiliated with the Dr. Foster and Smith Company to resell their product line.

JANUARY 2009

Gina Thompson’s Missing You is being released worldwide on Sunset Urban!

There are few female R&B vocalists, in Gina Thompson’s case over ten (10) years ago, can attest to the success that a platinum selling artist with albums released on two different major record labels (Mercury/Motown and Elektra), working with the top record producers in the industry (Stevie J., Sean “P Diddy” Combs) and doing a single with Grammy Award Winner, Missy Elliot, can talk about it today as their new single rises up the charts.

Having sold over a million CDs worldwide, the platinum selling artist is now set to release its third (3rd) album, "Missing You" on February 3, on Sunset Urban Records. “The single went to number one right away at Music choice’s Musica Urbana Channel so we had to get this out as soon as humanly possible, and it still took a few months for Rod (Millwood) to finish the CD,” says Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Urban. Lichterman says the Urban Record Label will work this music vigorously to HipHop radio stations and to urban format stations. “Rod (Millwood) gave us many versions of the song to work so my plan is to send this hip-hop and urban along with world music stations and reggae stations,” says Lichterman about the new CD entitled, Missing You.

Rod Millwood is very well known for his staff producer deal he has in place with Lichterman’s label. Millwood has produced international top selling artists Mykal Rose (Black Uhuru), Mark Simmons, Roz, L. Myers, Don Ward and Kevin Hart along with his work with Gina Thompson. Millwood is also the owner of the world famous comedians club located on the popular South Street in Philadelphia. Lichterman considers Millwood one of the top producers in the world today. “Rod makes everything sound at such a high level that he has carte blanche with the label,” says Lichterman.

Over the course of Gina's career, the accomplished R&B and Soulful vocalist has released music at two (2) of the top record labels in the world, before now releasing her third (3rd) album entitled Missing You at the Sunset Urban Record Label. Her new single, "We Don’t Even Talk No More," has already shot up the charts according to Music Choice and its Musica Urbana Channel being the #1 song in its 1st week going for radio adds, and is currently going to try to be the most increased played song over the next few weeks. With The label is servicing all HipHop and Urban radio stations tracked by R&R (Radio & Records) and at BDS/Nielsen, since its release is not until next month, the label expects the song to be added to all major radio stations over the next couple weeks.

The Missing You CD is a very unique styled CD. It boasts many versions of the hit single all produced by Rod Millwood. Lichterman expects up to 4 of those versions to get radio play. There is also a club mix produced by Millwood that could be one of the favorite versions of the hit single. There is also a dancehall style and even a reggaeton version that is potential hits themselves and then there is a smooth R&B version of the song. “When I sat with Rod last year to hear the new music, we did not know what way to go with the songs,” says Lichterman and “then it hit me to use all of the great the versions of this songs and work them to a few radio formats. Having these versions makes this even a more fun project for us to work this year. I think my favorite version is the dancehall style and the radio promotion people love the club mix to work. We should all have these issues at labels.”

"Rod (Millwood) is one of the hardest working and most gifted producers on the planet," states Don Lichterman, President and Founder of Sunset Urban / Sunset Records. "And, as far as my business plan at Sunset Urban, having the new Gina CD at the Sunset Urban label is incredible for what is an independently privately owned record company. To be able to release a major recording artist whom I had worked with when she did her Mercury album is almost surreal for me today."

There is a plan to set up Sunset Urban shows in select cities like New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington DC in March. That tour’s tentative line up with Gina as the headline act is with Blackwell and Capt. Crunk.

Capt. Crunk’s Freestyle HipHop Jams Will Be Made Available on CD, as downloads and as Ringtones Downloadable at all major retail outlets around the world

Some things should never go unheard which is the mentality of Capt. Crunk and the Sunset Urban label head, Don Lichterman – Freestyle Crunk is set to be released to stores in mid March. Crunk goes to work in a Bronx recording studio this week!

“Crunk and I met at the ASCAP building last week and I briefly said something to him about his freestyle jams he had spoken about when we first met last year,” says (Don) Lichterman. “I thought it would be perfect to follow up the debut CD (It’s A Hell Of A Drug) while it’s still going strong” and “if we did something new this close to us working his debut CD, I would want to something very unique and not a normal CD.””This is not only a unique project for a hiphop artist; it will show off his talent because it’s done a real time with his own words made up at that exact time.” Lichterman then goes on to say that he saw the concept in action last month when he “posted the freestyle Crunk videos on the Sunset Urban artist page.” And then the concept album hit him as he “heard a Paul McCartney interview on Howard (Stern) about his latest CD with a DJ in Florida which has him singing lyrics made up in the studio the day of them recording that album.”

Since the hiphop artist released his first full length CD with the label last year, Crunk has become an international selling hiphop artist. His songs have been listened to by nearly 18,000 people in just a few months. Now Capt Crunk fans will be able to have his freestyle jams on CD and as downloads, ringtones and you can view the videos free at Capt. Crunk’s artist page at Sunset Urban (CaptCrunk.SunsetUrban.com).Sunset Urban has the original CD available at every retail outlet that sells music and the label plans to have a free download promotion with the freestyle music along with special bundled deals allowing his fans to combine songs from both CDs. The music artist is also creating brand new artwork touted as a “Crunk styled animation” for cell phones that will be sold with the freestyle album.

The artist has already spent a set of blocked out time in the studio churning out 6 songs for the label this week. “This is a compilation of some true life off the top of my head thoughts put down in a recording,” says Capt. Crunk from the studio in the Bronx, New York. “I don’t ever want anyone to stop respecting the power of the word,” says Crunk and “there is something to say about recording music this way.” Capt. Crunk makes no bones about working in the studio playing live is much different than laying down tracks “having the ability to create layers of production” which is generally done the traditional way.

Crunk fans will soon be able to take these freestyle jams to the street and support their favorite hiphop superstar to show off his innovative style of rap. Fans can buy the CD and get all of songs by downloading the freestyle jams to the iPod, mp3 player and of course as their ringtone. The final 6 songs will be done this week from the New York City borough and the Sunset Urban street date for the brand new Freestyle Crunk CD is set for March 17th, 2009.

Sunset Continues To Develop Music Through Its Digital Record Label

Sunset has just launched a digital record label this month, finding, signing and developing music artists with the overall objective of breaking them through its distribution system, licensing network, radio promotion, press and media departments along with its live download company and radio network.

Sunset Connect is the now the backbone for the Sunset Records digital division and moreover, this is one of their best ways for the label to find new music. The label will function as a newly created division at the Sunset record label based in New York City. The label started this month by releasing full length albums by D’Cyple, Obka, Ric Laue, Kan’Nal, Starr Cullars, Cryout, a Cracker / David Lowery type of songwriter from England named Clayton Road; and many compilations that feature popular music artists (The Crystal Method, Fatboy Slim, Sneaker Pimps, Gavin Friday, Eve Gallagher, Boy George, Leftfield, Death In Vegas and more), and will now begin to sign more music every month during this first year.

Don Lichterman, the head of Sunset Records, will run the digital only label during the key launch stages in the first few months, finding new talent and implementing the A&R and lead time administration. The Sunset Connect digital label is set up to develop bands working everything to major radio, press, retail and for licensing opportunities in film, TV and commercials in an automated way. Lichterman’s Sunset Live download company will be run through the Sunset Connect distribution system although it will be a standalone company run by its own staff. The live concert download company has just released a very special live concert by the world famous comedian, Roz (Last Comic Standing, Laff House Live).

Lichterman said about the digital label that it is a convergence of many factors with regard to the landscape of distribution and working music today-- including promotional mailings and mailings for music-licensing opportunities, and today, every aspect of a record label can be distributed to radio, retail, press and licensing companies all digitally -- made it the perfect climate to start Sunset Connect. The label will provide the ability to purchase physical CDs for placement at Amazon, Target and its own CD / DVD Store, through its On-Demand system powered by Amazon’s Create Space.

"We have every aspect of what a record label does for its music artists at Sunset Connect, and working music this way is cost effective for artists that it will no doubt be the standard model for record labels," Lichterman said in a press release with Billboard Media Wire. "We are poising Sunset for that time by starting the label today and at the same time, this label pays its artist 70/30 splits on net sales, which will keep everyone recouped making money every pay period.” Sunset Connect will look to hire a label head and other staff members for A&R acquisitions with the label feeding off the Sunset Records divisions for its promotion, licensing, marketing and administration.

While Sunset Records has made great progress in the last year with its new music – the Federal Moguls (QBall from Bloodhound Gang and Troy Walsh (MTV.com) new project and platinum recording artist Gina Thompson’s new project as run through the main label (Sunset Records and Sunset Urban accordingly) -- the Sunset Connect record label will be committed to developing new talent and up-and-coming music artists. Each of the artists on the label has already released indie albums and Sunset Connect distributes the entire catalogs of these artists. "We have great lee way now to develop new music without getting them thousands of dollars in the unrecouped column, and we can take on so many more projects today," Lichterman said.

Sunset Connects business plan has taken the same shape as the rest of the Sunset labels. There is a perfect mix of brand new talent in with established artist signings that are legends in the industry. Of the new bands,  Kan’Nal’s “Gypsy” was the number one song played on the Radio Italia Network last year for a few weeks and D’Cyple’s two songs “My Life” and “Don’t Wanna Be” have broken the top 50 on the Indy Record Pool charts last year and is still being featured in clubs charting every month. Clayton Road also now has two songs in Pure Play’s Music Network and every artist is featured at Pandora. Sunset Connect has digital deals with every top online retailer including iTunes, Real/Rhapsody, eMusic, Amazon MP3, Napster, Shockhound and over 40 outlets. The digital only label does make physical product via Amazon’s On-Demand system making CDs available at Amazon, target and the Sunset Store, however, it will not carry any stock inventory.

Top industry people at major labels and at Indy labels admit there is no set formula for a digital only record label. Lichterman says that he has “found the perfect way to make everyone money and work this music at Sunset Connect as close to what you would do for an artist that has a traditional record deal.” He also was quick to say that the idea of doing this now is almost “overdue, but for us at Sunset, this the perfect time for this type of label considering our label wide rosters at this time. Our traditional label is working like a machine and our artists and staff producer (Rod Millwood) were named on the Grammy Nomination Ballot 68 times leading up to December 5th. We now have the formula to make sure this label works like a cost effective machine and ironically speaking, I could see this label being the one that is the main label as the industry phases out physical DVDs and CDs."

Sunset Live Will Presents The Laff House Comedy Tour in 2009 along with a brand new live Comedy CD by one of the worlds top comedians, Kevin Hart!

Kevin Hart (Soul Plane, Scary Movie, Epic Movie, 40 Year Old Virgin) will release a brand new Full Length comedy album in Spring 2009. The Laff House and Sunset Live are planning a nation wide tour with comedians from BET's Comic Review, Def Jam Comedy Show ion HBO and with Kevin on the bill. Hart is playing three nights at the world famous Punchline Comedy Club in San Francisco from 2/5 to 27/. Kevin's last comedy CD, I'm A Grown Little Man is a top selling CD at Sunset!

all Sunset artists chart on the aol powered our stage last month!

Thirteen (13) Sunset artists broke the Top 100 at AOL's Our Stage for December 2008. Eight (8) Sunset artists broke the Top 50 and four (4) Sunset artists broke the Top 25 for the last month in 2008!

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